Arsenal join race for Napoli talisman Ezequiel Lavezzi

Exciting Napoli winger
Ezequiel Lavezzi is being linked with a summer move to Arsenal, after the north London club expressed an interest in him.

Arsene Wenger faces a battle to secure the Argentine winger as the likes of Manchester City, Juventus and Chelsea are already known to be in the running.

Lavezzi (right) tormented Chelsea in the Champions League this week (Getty)

But that has not stopped the French boss making initial overtures to the Serie A outfit about one of their prized assets.

Lavezzi has shot to prominence this season as part of Napoli’s ‘Holy Trinity’ along with Edinson Cavani and Marek Hamsik. He starred in the club’s 3-1 Champions League triumph over Chelsea this week.

Footy Bunker suggested that Wenger has targeted both Lavezzi and German striker Lukas Podolski as he aims to freshen up his squad this summer.

Arsenal have been criticised this season for their inconsistent form and reliance on Robin van Persie, leading Wenger to identify potential recruits early.

Lavezzi has made 28 appearances for Napoli this season, scoring seven times and registering nine assists. The Italian outfit have already defeated Manchester City in Europe’s premier club competition and are well placed to dispose of Chelsea.

Should Arsenal get their man, it is speculated that Theo Walcott could be one player who makes way by departing the Emirates.